P-43 Analysis of Animal Research Regulations within Developing Caribbean Countries
Author(s):
S Francis-Charles; S Bidaisee
Year of Presentation:
2024
Objective: To analyze animal care and use policies for research within the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States and determine if differences exist in comparison to international standards to make recommendations to improve animal welfare within the region.
Methods: The study was conducted via a systematic literature review from March 2022 to 2023. All data was retrieved from online published sources using search engines such as PubMed, Google Scholar, University Libraries, and official governmental and organizational websites.
Results: Of the seven full member states of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, animal research could only be found within St. Kitts and Nevis (52.9%), Grenada (29%), Dominica (14%), and Antigua and Barbuda (2.9%). While general care and use protections exist in all seven countries, only three countries, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts, and Nevis, were found to contain guides specific to animal use in research. Comparison with international policies highlighted limited incorporation of ethical principles and reduced regulatory oversight within the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States regulations.
Conclusion: Animal legislation exists within the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States. Most are limited to cruelty prevention with little emphasis on research. The differences between the OECS and international policies signal the need for a collaborative approach to legislative amendment and sensitization on animal care and use in research. There is also a need for the digitalization of records and education to assist in the spread of information and improvement of animal welfare within the region.